By LISA NEWMAN K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The holidays, while a time of celebration for many, can bring feelings of isolation and grief for others. For those who are alone or mourning the loss of a loved one, the season’s focus on togetherness and joy may deepen their sense of loneliness. 

Understanding the Challenges &nbsp;The holidays often serve as a reminder of those who are no longer with us. Traditions, once filled with warmth and laughter, may now feel hollow.

For others, being far from family or experiencing strained relationships can lead to loneliness. These feelings can be amplified by societal expectations to be cheerful, creating an emotional disconnect that is difficult to navigate.&nbsp;

Acknowledging these emotions is the first step in supporting those who might be struggling. Letting someone know it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or distant during the holidays can help validate their experience.&nbsp; Small Acts of Kindness, Big Impacts&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kindness has the power to transform not only those who receive it but also those who give it. Here are meaningful ways to support friends, neighbors, or community members who might feel alone this holiday season:&nbsp;

A simple phone call, text, or handwritten note can make someone’s day. Let them know they are on your mind and that you care.&nbsp;

If possible, invite them to join your holiday celebrations. Even if they decline, the gesture itself can make a significant difference.&nbsp;

Create New Traditions Together&nbsp;

Offering to create new, low-pressure traditions can help fill the void left by absent loved ones or memories. For example, baking cookies, taking a walk to look at holiday lights, or watching a favorite movie together can offer comfort.&nbsp;

Grieving individuals often struggle with everyday tasks. Offering help with decorating, shopping, or cooking can ease their burden.&nbsp;

Sometimes, what people need most is someone to sit with them and listen. Let them share memories of their loved one or talk about their feelings without judgment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Encouraging Self-Compassion&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are someone experiencing loneliness or grief this season, it’s important to prioritize self-care. Give yourself permission to feel your emotions and seek out activities that bring you peace, whether that’s journaling, spending time in nature, or connecting with supportive friends.&nbsp;

Remember, it’s okay to adjust or skip traditions that feel overwhelming this year. New memories and joys can coexist with the pain of loss, even if they take time to emerge.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The holidays are ultimately about love, compassion, and connection. By extending a hand to those who feel alone or grieving, we embody the true spirit of the season. This year, let’s pledge to make the season a little brighter for everyone, creating a ripple of kindness that extends far beyond the twinkling lights.

&nbsp;To learn more about resources made available by K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District, check out their website here <a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu">https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729864143137.jpeg" alt="Lisa Newman" />
 <figcaption>Lisa Newman</figcaption>
 </figure>By LISA NEWMAN K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The holidays, while a time of celebration for many, can bring feelings of isolation and grief for others. For those who are alone or mourning the loss of a loved one, the season’s focus on togetherness and joy may deepen their sense of loneliness. Understanding the Challenges &nbsp;The holidays often serve as a reminder of those who are no longer with us. Traditions, once filled with warmth and laughter, may now feel hollow. For others, being far from family or experiencing strained relationships can lead to loneliness. These feelings can be amplified by societal expectations to be cheerful, creating an emotional disconnect that is difficult to navigate.&nbsp;Acknowledging these emotions is the first step in supporting those who might be struggling. Letting someone know it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or distant during the holidays can help validate their experience.&nbsp; Small Acts of Kindness, Big Impacts&nbsp;&nbsp; Kindness has the power to transform not only those who receive it but also those who give it. Here are meaningful ways to support friends, neighbors, or community members who might feel alone this holiday season:&nbsp;Reach Out&nbsp;A simple phone call, text, or handwritten note can make someone’s day. Let them know they are on your mind and that you care.&nbsp;Extend Invitations&nbsp;If possible, invite them to join your holiday celebrations. Even if they decline, the gesture itself can make a significant difference.&nbsp;Create New Traditions Together&nbsp;Offering to create new, low-pressure traditions can help fill the void left by absent loved ones or memories. For example, baking cookies, taking a walk to look at holiday lights, or watching a favorite movie together can offer comfort.&nbsp;Provide Practical Help&nbsp;Grieving individuals often struggle with everyday tasks. Offering help with decorating, shopping, or cooking can ease their burden.&nbsp;Be a Listening Ear&nbsp;Sometimes, what people need most is someone to sit with them and listen. Let them share memories of their loved one or talk about their feelings without judgment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Encouraging Self-Compassion&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are someone experiencing loneliness or grief this season, it’s important to prioritize self-care. Give yourself permission to feel your emotions and seek out activities that bring you peace, whether that’s journaling, spending time in nature, or connecting with supportive friends.&nbsp;Remember, it’s okay to adjust or skip traditions that feel overwhelming this year. New memories and joys can coexist with the pain of loss, even if they take time to emerge.&nbsp;&nbsp;A Holiday of Hope&nbsp;&nbsp;The holidays are ultimately about love, compassion, and connection. By extending a hand to those who feel alone or grieving, we embody the true spirit of the season. This year, let’s pledge to make the season a little brighter for everyone, creating a ripple of kindness that extends far beyond the twinkling lights.&nbsp;To learn more about resources made available by K-State Research and Extension – Central Kansas District, check out their website here <a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu">https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu</a>

NEWMAN: Supporting the grieving and alone this holiday season, a season of compassion

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

Throughout 2024 parts of Kansas have been in abnormally dry or drought conditions. Some places, like those that use Cheney Reservoir west of Wichita as a water source, have even had water conservation restrictions in place for several months.

Changes in rainfall have been commonplace for the past few years. This rainfall is distributed unevenly across the state. Some places are going from very dry to getting the expected monthly rain total in a single day. These changes don’t necessarily show up in long-term averages but have a significant effect on agricultural production and infrastructure-disruptive flooding.

The historic trend of widespread droughts can also lead to increased food prices and according to research from Harvard University, such droughts are likely to continue into the future.

These trends prompted the Docking Institute at Fort Hays State University to add water conservation questions to their annual Kansas Speaks public opinion survey this year.

The survey asked respondents whether local and state governments across the state were addressing water conservation efforts satisfactorily.

33.4% of respondents felt that their local government was not doing enough for water conservation in their part of Kansas. Nearly 40% felt it was doing the right amount, and only 2.4% felt it was doing too much.

Nearly 37% of respondents felt the state government was not doing enough, nearly 34% felt it was doing the right amount, and only 3.2% said it was doing too much.

Respondents were nearly evenly split on whether or not voluntary action by individuals and businesses (33.6%) is sufficient for improving water conservation efforts across the state or whether local governments should pass new laws (35.7%). Similar results appeared for voluntary action by individuals and businesses (33.5%) versus new laws from the state government (34.1%).

About 30% of respondents had no opinion for both questions.

Nearly a majority (49.6%) of Kansans report being very or moderately concerned that the state might be running out of water. An additional 27.7% report being slightly concerned.

Kansas lawmakers face a pivotal choice about the future of water conservation in the state.

The data from the Kansas Speaks survey reflects a growing public awareness of the challenges posed by shifting rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and unequal water availability. With nearly half of Kansans expressing significant concern about the state’s water resources, it’s clear that inaction is not an option.

The question now is whether state and local leaders will take proactive steps to address these concerns through targeted policies and investments or leave the responsibility to voluntary efforts by individuals and businesses.

As extreme weather events and historic drought trends continue to strain Kansas's water systems, the decisions made today will determine whether the state can secure its water future and support its agricultural backbone for generations to come.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasThroughout 2024 parts of Kansas have been in abnormally dry or drought conditions. Some places, like those that use Cheney Reservoir west of Wichita as a water source, have even had water conservation restrictions in place for several months.Changes in rainfall have been commonplace for the past few years. This rainfall is distributed unevenly across the state. Some places are going from very dry to getting the expected monthly rain total in a single day. These changes don’t necessarily show up in long-term averages but have a significant effect on agricultural production and infrastructure-disruptive flooding.The historic trend of widespread droughts can also lead to increased food prices and according to research from Harvard University, such droughts are likely to continue into the future.These trends prompted the Docking Institute at Fort Hays State University to add water conservation questions to their annual Kansas Speaks public opinion survey this year.The survey asked respondents whether local and state governments across the state were addressing water conservation efforts satisfactorily.33.4% of respondents felt that their local government was not doing enough for water conservation in their part of Kansas. Nearly 40% felt it was doing the right amount, and only 2.4% felt it was doing too much.Nearly 37% of respondents felt the state government was not doing enough, nearly 34% felt it was doing the right amount, and only 3.2% said it was doing too much.Respondents were nearly evenly split on whether or not voluntary action by individuals and businesses (33.6%) is sufficient for improving water conservation efforts across the state or whether local governments should pass new laws (35.7%). Similar results appeared for voluntary action by individuals and businesses (33.5%) versus new laws from the state government (34.1%).About 30% of respondents had no opinion for both questions.Nearly a majority (49.6%) of Kansans report being very or moderately concerned that the state might be running out of water. An additional 27.7% report being slightly concerned.Kansas lawmakers face a pivotal choice about the future of water conservation in the state.The data from the Kansas Speaks survey reflects a growing public awareness of the challenges posed by shifting rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and unequal water availability. With nearly half of Kansans expressing significant concern about the state’s water resources, it’s clear that inaction is not an option.The question now is whether state and local leaders will take proactive steps to address these concerns through targeted policies and investments or leave the responsibility to voluntary efforts by individuals and businesses.As extreme weather events and historic drought trends continue to strain Kansas's water systems, the decisions made today will determine whether the state can secure its water future and support its agricultural backbone for generations to come.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Public opinion signals urgency for Kansas water conservation

By JASON GRAVES K-State Research and Extension Central District&nbsp;Horticulturist

Thanksgiving invites us to slow down and reflect on gratitude—a practice that doesn’t always come easily amid the busyness of daily life. In my experience, gratitude is much like a garden: it needs patience, care, and intentionality to grow and thrive truly.

In my daily work with gardeners here in central Kansas, I’ve noticed a shared trait: generosity. Gardeners freely share their time, resources, and wisdom, seeing abundance where others might see only scarcity. I believe this generosity is a natural outgrowth of their gratitude. As they nurture life in their gardens, gratitude also seems to take root and flourish within them.

This is where gardening and gratitude naturally meet. The more time gardeners spend in the planting, growing, and harvesting cycles, the more they see life itself as a series of gifts. And that’s what gratitude truly is: naming everything as a gift.

Gratefulness names something as a gift, and the habit of constantly naming everything in my life as a gift changes me.&nbsp; Even life’s challenges are gifts that shape and refine me.&nbsp; Gratitude is the most potent form of honesty.&nbsp; It isn’t a pair of rose-colored glasses that denies what is hard, it is more like a conjunction or a companion that comes alongside difficulty to give us a much fuller sense of reality in every moment. &nbsp;

Difficulties, when they arise, are not the whole of our existence.

Experienced gardeners understand that not every growing season will go according to plan.&nbsp; A sudden heatwave early in the season can render tomato pollen nonviable, leading to crop failure. A swarm of caterpillars may strip coneflower foliage bare. A strong windstorm might topple even the most beautiful, productive apple tree.

These things happen, and most gardeners I work with refuse to let these challenges make them less than human.&nbsp; They refuse to shrink or lose their sense and awareness of reality.&nbsp; They have learned to name everything as a gift, even the hardships.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When the tomato crop fails due to heat, they turn their attention to the gift of sweet potato vines that laugh at the hot weather and grow even faster.&nbsp; When the swarm of caterpillars is identified as silvery checkerspot larvae, they anticipate the gift of beautiful black, yellow, and orange butterflies that will soon grace their garden.&nbsp; When the storm topples the apple tree, they mourn the loss but also see the gift of a new opportunity to plant even more sun-loving native flowers to build biodiversity in their landscape.

Thanksgiving season is the perfect time to cultivate gratitude with renewed intentionality. It begins with slowing down and naming everything as a gift. In doing so, we practice the most potent form of honesty—and, like a well-tended garden, our gratitude will grow and flourish.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823329994.jpeg" alt="Jason Graves" />
 <figcaption>Jason Graves</figcaption>
 </figure>By JASON GRAVES K-State Research and Extension Central District&nbsp;Horticulturist Thanksgiving invites us to slow down and reflect on gratitude—a practice that doesn’t always come easily amid the busyness of daily life. In my experience, gratitude is much like a garden: it needs patience, care, and intentionality to grow and thrive truly.In my daily work with gardeners here in central Kansas, I’ve noticed a shared trait: generosity. Gardeners freely share their time, resources, and wisdom, seeing abundance where others might see only scarcity. I believe this generosity is a natural outgrowth of their gratitude. As they nurture life in their gardens, gratitude also seems to take root and flourish within them.This is where gardening and gratitude naturally meet. The more time gardeners spend in the planting, growing, and harvesting cycles, the more they see life itself as a series of gifts. And that’s what gratitude truly is: naming everything as a gift.Gratefulness names something as a gift, and the habit of constantly naming everything in my life as a gift changes me.&nbsp; Even life’s challenges are gifts that shape and refine me.&nbsp; Gratitude is the most potent form of honesty.&nbsp; It isn’t a pair of rose-colored glasses that denies what is hard, it is more like a conjunction or a companion that comes alongside difficulty to give us a much fuller sense of reality in every moment. &nbsp;Difficulties, when they arise, are not the whole of our existence.Experienced gardeners understand that not every growing season will go according to plan.&nbsp; A sudden heatwave early in the season can render tomato pollen nonviable, leading to crop failure. A swarm of caterpillars may strip coneflower foliage bare. A strong windstorm might topple even the most beautiful, productive apple tree.These things happen, and most gardeners I work with refuse to let these challenges make them less than human.&nbsp; They refuse to shrink or lose their sense and awareness of reality.&nbsp; They have learned to name everything as a gift, even the hardships.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the tomato crop fails due to heat, they turn their attention to the gift of sweet potato vines that laugh at the hot weather and grow even faster.&nbsp; When the swarm of caterpillars is identified as silvery checkerspot larvae, they anticipate the gift of beautiful black, yellow, and orange butterflies that will soon grace their garden.&nbsp; When the storm topples the apple tree, they mourn the loss but also see the gift of a new opportunity to plant even more sun-loving native flowers to build biodiversity in their landscape.Thanksgiving season is the perfect time to cultivate gratitude with renewed intentionality. It begins with slowing down and naming everything as a gift. In doing so, we practice the most potent form of honesty—and, like a well-tended garden, our gratitude will grow and flourish.

GRAVES: Gardening gratitude this Thanksgiving season

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

We are on the eve of Thanksgiving and one of the most iconic meals of the year. Who does not crave the turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, rolls, cranberries, pumpkin pie, etc. I know my plan is to fall asleep in front of the TV in a turkey induced food coma.

The American Farm Bureau Federation has come out with its annual comparison of the cost of a traditional dinner for 10 and the price has fallen for the second year in a row. The cost is $58.08, or $5.80 per person. This is a reduction of 5 percent from 2023 and down from $64.05 in 2022.

I do not know if anyone else finds this interesting — maybe it is just my ag econ degree talking — but I like comparing one year to the next. I saw one commentator who disputed whether Thanksgiving dinner could be purchased at that price, but I really think that is irrelevant. The fact is one of the things we must be thankful for is living in a country where we have an affordable, abundant food supply.

I also like to think that Thanksgiving is a time when we should celebrate agriculture and all that we, as an industry, do to make the United States the greatest nation in the world. The foundation of any stable nation is a stable food supply. It is really hard to accomplish great things on an empty stomach.

I know we all take the food choices we have for granted. This past week I went to the grocery store to buy our Thanksgiving turkey, and I was met with a wide selection of brands and weights of turkeys. Driving down the street I saw restaurant signs offering to prepare the bird. The possibilities presented on the aisles of our grocery stores are endless. Consider the fact that you do not even have to go to the grocery store to buy food and you start to get the idea.

Most of us do not have to worry about where our next meal is coming from, we just must figure out what we want to eat. That is where those of us in agriculture come in. Without the incredible network of farmers and ranchers this safe, abundant food supply is not possible.

We are so good at what we do that most of our consumers take it for granted, and maybe that is why I find the annual comparison from the American Farm Bureau so fascinating. Most of us will go to the grocery store, pick up the necessary items and never give a thought to the cost or how they got on the shelves. We are good at what we do, but we are not good at tooting our own horn.

Without our incredible production it is not possible to serve a feast to 10 people for less than $60, and that is something the rest of the world is in awe of. So, this Thanksgiving, stop and take a minute to be proud of being part of what feeds the United States, we are really good at what we do. That is something to be thankful for.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690818396954.jpeg" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherWe are on the eve of Thanksgiving and one of the most iconic meals of the year. Who does not crave the turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, rolls, cranberries, pumpkin pie, etc. I know my plan is to fall asleep in front of the TV in a turkey induced food coma.The American Farm Bureau Federation has come out with its annual comparison of the cost of a traditional dinner for 10 and the price has fallen for the second year in a row. The cost is $58.08, or $5.80 per person. This is a reduction of 5 percent from 2023 and down from $64.05 in 2022.I do not know if anyone else finds this interesting — maybe it is just my ag econ degree talking — but I like comparing one year to the next. I saw one commentator who disputed whether Thanksgiving dinner could be purchased at that price, but I really think that is irrelevant. The fact is one of the things we must be thankful for is living in a country where we have an affordable, abundant food supply.I also like to think that Thanksgiving is a time when we should celebrate agriculture and all that we, as an industry, do to make the United States the greatest nation in the world. The foundation of any stable nation is a stable food supply. It is really hard to accomplish great things on an empty stomach.I know we all take the food choices we have for granted. This past week I went to the grocery store to buy our Thanksgiving turkey, and I was met with a wide selection of brands and weights of turkeys. Driving down the street I saw restaurant signs offering to prepare the bird. The possibilities presented on the aisles of our grocery stores are endless. Consider the fact that you do not even have to go to the grocery store to buy food and you start to get the idea.Most of us do not have to worry about where our next meal is coming from, we just must figure out what we want to eat. That is where those of us in agriculture come in. Without the incredible network of farmers and ranchers this safe, abundant food supply is not possible.We are so good at what we do that most of our consumers take it for granted, and maybe that is why I find the annual comparison from the American Farm Bureau so fascinating. Most of us will go to the grocery store, pick up the necessary items and never give a thought to the cost or how they got on the shelves. We are good at what we do, but we are not good at tooting our own horn.Without our incredible production it is not possible to serve a feast to 10 people for less than $60, and that is something the rest of the world is in awe of. So, this Thanksgiving, stop and take a minute to be proud of being part of what feeds the United States, we are really good at what we do. That is something to be thankful for."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.Copyright © 2024 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: A feast of thanks

By JOHNNIE KELLER Salina Resident

Recently, I walked around one of the state's Technical College’s and I have noticed an increase in hostility towards people who hold conservative values on our campuses.&nbsp; Educators, even outside the classrooms, are not allowed to express their political opinions if the opinion is different from the leadership of that institution.&nbsp; In 2023, while teaching as an adjunct at a Kansas Community College, I saw where the student-led school paper always slanted to the left on the opinion page.&nbsp; I tried to get an answer as to why and was told that it's an opinion page and facts don’t matter.&nbsp;

One of the student writers openly attacked Jews and Christians in the paper, and I expressed my concerns to no avail.&nbsp; Eventually, a courageous student wrote an opposition opinion and expressed his faith and beliefs, which were based on Christianity.&nbsp; He was attacked and shamed for his opinion.&nbsp; I wrote him a letter and told him not to waver his beliefs and opinions.&nbsp; I told him not to cave in, just to fit in and that this was the whole problem in education, especially higher education.&nbsp; With tax dollars (both state and federal) providing much of the funding to schools, it is a direct violation of the First Amendment of our State and Federal Constitutions to restrict or attack freedom of speech and religion.&nbsp;

After all of this, I expressed my disgust and complained to my superior about this.&nbsp; I was surprised by his response, and I will paraphrase what he said: 

“You have three choices: One – fight it and get nowhere two - just move on to get along; three - you can leave.”&nbsp;

I was then asked to be an adjunct at a Kansas Technical College and accepted a part-time job (for something to do in retirement).&nbsp; This past fall, especially this last election cycle I noticed that the institution had “Go Vote” cards and flyers all over the school.&nbsp; At first, this looked like a great way to motivate students to vote.&nbsp; I took the information home, researched the information provided, and found that this was a left-leaning organization.&nbsp; There was not one bit of information that presented an opposing point of view, which would have provided information that allowed the voter to decide.

One day, while I was on campus and not teaching, I spoke with some of my students on break, and in our discussion, I stated my opinion on a presidential candidate.&nbsp; I then moved on to our conversation, which was not about politics.&nbsp; Within 10 minutes, my supervisor showed up and told me that I couldn’t talk about it, and I pointed out that there weren’t any opposing points of view or facts anywhere on the campus.&nbsp; I was then told again that I couldn’t talk about it.&nbsp; I informed my (former) supervisor that it violated my First Amendment rights, and I will not be quiet about this. I then went to the lab and informed one of the other teachers that my resignation would be forthcoming, and I quit working there.&nbsp;

I had the right to speak and the knowledge to speak with facts, and I was in a position where leaving wasn’t a big deal.&nbsp; Unfortunately, students don’t have that option, yet institutions take federal and state taxpayer money for their schools.&nbsp; Yet, these same schools promote agendas even if they are under most people's radar.&nbsp; Open hostility is rising in our country against people of opposing positions or opinions, which needs to be addressed.&nbsp; It is time for our federal and state legislators to look into our schools and take back our tax dollars if schools are pushing political agendas.&nbsp; If all sides are not recognized and equally represented, we, parents and taxpayers, need to withhold money from those schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHNNIE KELLER Salina ResidentRecently, I walked around one of the state's Technical College’s and I have noticed an increase in hostility towards people who hold conservative values on our campuses.&nbsp; Educators, even outside the classrooms, are not allowed to express their political opinions if the opinion is different from the leadership of that institution.&nbsp; In 2023, while teaching as an adjunct at a Kansas Community College, I saw where the student-led school paper always slanted to the left on the opinion page.&nbsp; I tried to get an answer as to why and was told that it's an opinion page and facts don’t matter.&nbsp;One of the student writers openly attacked Jews and Christians in the paper, and I expressed my concerns to no avail.&nbsp; Eventually, a courageous student wrote an opposition opinion and expressed his faith and beliefs, which were based on Christianity.&nbsp; He was attacked and shamed for his opinion.&nbsp; I wrote him a letter and told him not to waver his beliefs and opinions.&nbsp; I told him not to cave in, just to fit in and that this was the whole problem in education, especially higher education.&nbsp; With tax dollars (both state and federal) providing much of the funding to schools, it is a direct violation of the First Amendment of our State and Federal Constitutions to restrict or attack freedom of speech and religion.&nbsp;After all of this, I expressed my disgust and complained to my superior about this.&nbsp; I was surprised by his response, and I will paraphrase what he said: “You have three choices: One – fight it and get nowhere two - just move on to get along; three - you can leave.”&nbsp; I chose to leave.&nbsp; I was then asked to be an adjunct at a Kansas Technical College and accepted a part-time job (for something to do in retirement).&nbsp; This past fall, especially this last election cycle I noticed that the institution had “Go Vote” cards and flyers all over the school.&nbsp; At first, this looked like a great way to motivate students to vote.&nbsp; I took the information home, researched the information provided, and found that this was a left-leaning organization.&nbsp; There was not one bit of information that presented an opposing point of view, which would have provided information that allowed the voter to decide.One day, while I was on campus and not teaching, I spoke with some of my students on break, and in our discussion, I stated my opinion on a presidential candidate.&nbsp; I then moved on to our conversation, which was not about politics.&nbsp; Within 10 minutes, my supervisor showed up and told me that I couldn’t talk about it, and I pointed out that there weren’t any opposing points of view or facts anywhere on the campus.&nbsp; I was then told again that I couldn’t talk about it.&nbsp; I informed my (former) supervisor that it violated my First Amendment rights, and I will not be quiet about this. I then went to the lab and informed one of the other teachers that my resignation would be forthcoming, and I quit working there.&nbsp;I had the right to speak and the knowledge to speak with facts, and I was in a position where leaving wasn’t a big deal.&nbsp; Unfortunately, students don’t have that option, yet institutions take federal and state taxpayer money for their schools.&nbsp; Yet, these same schools promote agendas even if they are under most people's radar.&nbsp; Open hostility is rising in our country against people of opposing positions or opinions, which needs to be addressed.&nbsp; It is time for our federal and state legislators to look into our schools and take back our tax dollars if schools are pushing political agendas.&nbsp; If all sides are not recognized and equally represented, we, parents and taxpayers, need to withhold money from those schools.

OPINION: Freedom of speech in schools

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

The other weekend I watched two deer wander out of a creek bed and meander through a meadow until they caught a scent they didn’t like and took off running. After a few strides, it was difficult to pick out their tan hides against the khaki grasses as they ran toward the tree line in the distance.

I was walking in a local park at the time so I could safely admire the quick, graceful escape. There’s been plenty of times where I wasn’t so happy to see a herd of deer galloping, mainly along the side of the road when I’m driving.

Thankfully I’ve never had the misfortune of hitting one with a vehicle, though there’ve been several close calls. Oddly, though, my close encounters have usually come during the summer months rather than this time of year when deer are more active when people are likely to be heading to and from work.

There are plenty of reasons for fall to be the peak season for vehicles to collide with deer, but the main ones are the animals are most active at dawn and dusk. In the fall, that activity coincides with most peoples’ commutes. It’s also the time of year deer wander farther than normal and are less wary of potential hazards as they seek to find a mate, which increases the chances they cross paths with you.

The Kansas Department of Parks and Wildlife has the following advice on how to avoid deer collisions:

Watch for more than one deer, as they seldom travel alone.

-Reduce speed and be alert near wooded areas or green spaces such as parks or golf courses and near water such as streams or ponds.

-Deer crossing signs indicate where high levels of deer/vehicle crashes have occurred in the past.

-Use your bright lights to help you detect deer as far ahead as possible. 

-Don’t swerve to avoid hitting a deer – the most serious crashes sometimes occur when drivers swerve and collide with another vehicle or run off the road and hit an obstacle.

-Always wear a seat belt and use child safety seats for the kids.

If you’re driving in Kansas anytime of year, these tips will serve you well, but they’re especially important in the fall. Deer are also just one more reason to keep your eyes on the road when traveling. In 2022, 37 percent of single-vehicle crashes in Kansas involved a deer. There were also 575 injuries reported and six deaths.

If you do hit a deer, pull as far onto the shoulder as you can or off the road entirely if possible. Engage your emergency flashers and contact local law enforcement or Kansas Highway Patrol. Don’t attempt to remove the animal from the roadway.

Beware of the deer. Remember slow and steady is the best course, and it’s always better to be late than never arrive.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687183475033.png" alt="Greg Doering" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauThe other weekend I watched two deer wander out of a creek bed and meander through a meadow until they caught a scent they didn’t like and took off running. After a few strides, it was difficult to pick out their tan hides against the khaki grasses as they ran toward the tree line in the distance.I was walking in a local park at the time so I could safely admire the quick, graceful escape. There’s been plenty of times where I wasn’t so happy to see a herd of deer galloping, mainly along the side of the road when I’m driving.Thankfully I’ve never had the misfortune of hitting one with a vehicle, though there’ve been several close calls. Oddly, though, my close encounters have usually come during the summer months rather than this time of year when deer are more active when people are likely to be heading to and from work.There are plenty of reasons for fall to be the peak season for vehicles to collide with deer, but the main ones are the animals are most active at dawn and dusk. In the fall, that activity coincides with most peoples’ commutes. It’s also the time of year deer wander farther than normal and are less wary of potential hazards as they seek to find a mate, which increases the chances they cross paths with you.The Kansas Department of Parks and Wildlife has the following advice on how to avoid deer collisions:Watch for more than one deer, as they seldom travel alone.-Reduce speed and be alert near wooded areas or green spaces such as parks or golf courses and near water such as streams or ponds.-Deer crossing signs indicate where high levels of deer/vehicle crashes have occurred in the past.-Use your bright lights to help you detect deer as far ahead as possible. -Don’t swerve to avoid hitting a deer – the most serious crashes sometimes occur when drivers swerve and collide with another vehicle or run off the road and hit an obstacle.-Always wear a seat belt and use child safety seats for the kids.If you’re driving in Kansas anytime of year, these tips will serve you well, but they’re especially important in the fall. Deer are also just one more reason to keep your eyes on the road when traveling. In 2022, 37 percent of single-vehicle crashes in Kansas involved a deer. There were also 575 injuries reported and six deaths.If you do hit a deer, pull as far onto the shoulder as you can or off the road entirely if possible. Engage your emergency flashers and contact local law enforcement or Kansas Highway Patrol. Don’t attempt to remove the animal from the roadway.Beware of the deer. Remember slow and steady is the best course, and it’s always better to be late than never arrive."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Insight: Beware of deer

By MARK R. JOSLYN Political Science Professor at the University of Kansas&nbsp;

The question was asked repeatedly over the past few years: Was 2016 a fluke?

Most Democrats and Never-Trump Republicans thought so.

After all, Trump won by the slimmest of margins in a few pivotal swing states and lost the popular vote by nearly 3 million. Then Trump’s tenure in the White House was marked by historically low public approval. And his sagging popularity was key to the crushing defeat in 2020.

The MAGA coalition always posed a significant challenge.

While it supported Trump unconditionally, the group constantly battled against public rebuke and narrow appeal. Moreover, it’s demographic characteristics, which skew male, rural and non-college, are typically obstacles for sustained political engagement. Frequently dismissed as racist deplorables, misogynists, weird, phobic, low-information, threats to democracy, supporters of a fascist, and more recently garbage, the MAGA-hat-wearing voters could never be the foundation of an expansive electoral coalition.

Yet, Trump’s sweeping victory last week proved a broad coalition could be constructed around working-class voting blocks, stitched skillfully together by populist appeals and reinforced by widespread economic anxiety.

Successful presidential candidates in fact grow their base rather than being limited by it.

Trump assembled a surprisingly diverse set of supporters, netting Republican gains in most counties across the nation, flipping all 7 battleground states, winning the popular vote, and taking back Congress. In big cities, suburbs, rural areas, in red states and in blue, Trump’s margins improved. The trend cut across demographic categories, with pronounced changes in Latino communities. In 2012, Mitt Romney won 27 percent of Latino voters. In 2024, Trump won 42 percent.

Trump’s performance among the working class improved as well.

In 2020, Trump edged Biden’s working-class support by 4 points. This time it tripled to 12-points.

Among the white working-class, Trump enjoyed a 25-point margin over Biden. Against Harris, it rose to 30. Trump’s electoral influence also reached Kansas, where most counties shifted right.

In southern Republican strongholds like Cherokee (+2.7%), and the much larger Sedgwick (+1.6%), Trump’s margins advanced. They also improved in the blue college town counties of Douglas (+1.2%) and Riley (+3.3%).

In the western counties where Latinos constitute a majority, Trump saw significant growth. Ford county improved 3 percent, Finney 6 percent, Seward 5 percent, and Grant 4 percent.

In short, the 2024 election was a uniform swing for Trump that showcased a new Republican coalition, one that approaches the diversity typically seen within the Democratic party.

However, it would be a mistake to overreact and claim that a lasting realignment has taken place.

It was a close election. The margin of victory in Wisconsin was 0.9%, 1.4% in Michigan, and 2.1% in Pennsylvania.

Keeping the coalition together will be difficult. Latinos are the new swing voters. And not long ago, Barack Obama drew a large share of the white working class.

Circumstances change quickly and future developments could very well benefit Democrats.

Finally, Trump’s opponents repeatedly claimed he was a danger to democracy.

But Trump is also a vivid expression of it.

He forged and expanded a unique coalition, harnessing the strength of the very democratic institutions that his critics argue he wishes to destroy.

The views and opinions expressed in this opinion article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions. If you would like to submit an opinion please submit it newstips@salinapost.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215697316.png" alt="Dr. Mark Joslyn" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Mark Joslyn</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK R. JOSLYN Political Science Professor at the University of Kansas&nbsp;The question was asked repeatedly over the past few years: Was 2016 a fluke?Most Democrats and Never-Trump Republicans thought so.After all, Trump won by the slimmest of margins in a few pivotal swing states and lost the popular vote by nearly 3 million. Then Trump’s tenure in the White House was marked by historically low public approval. And his sagging popularity was key to the crushing defeat in 2020.The MAGA coalition always posed a significant challenge.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>While it supported Trump unconditionally, the group constantly battled against public rebuke and narrow appeal. Moreover, it’s demographic characteristics, which skew male, rural and non-college, are typically obstacles for sustained political engagement. Frequently dismissed as racist deplorables, misogynists, weird, phobic, low-information, threats to democracy, supporters of a fascist, and more recently garbage, the MAGA-hat-wearing voters could never be the foundation of an expansive electoral coalition.Yet, Trump’s sweeping victory last week proved a broad coalition could be constructed around working-class voting blocks, stitched skillfully together by populist appeals and reinforced by widespread economic anxiety.Successful presidential candidates in fact grow their base rather than being limited by it.Trump assembled a surprisingly diverse set of supporters, netting Republican gains in most counties across the nation, flipping all 7 battleground states, winning the popular vote, and taking back Congress. In big cities, suburbs, rural areas, in red states and in blue, Trump’s margins improved. The trend cut across demographic categories, with pronounced changes in Latino communities. In 2012, Mitt Romney won 27 percent of Latino voters. In 2024, Trump won 42 percent.Trump’s performance among the working class improved as well.In 2020, Trump edged Biden’s working-class support by 4 points. This time it tripled to 12-points.Among the white working-class, Trump enjoyed a 25-point margin over Biden. Against Harris, it rose to 30. Trump’s electoral influence also reached Kansas, where most counties shifted right.In southern Republican strongholds like Cherokee (+2.7%), and the much larger Sedgwick (+1.6%), Trump’s margins advanced. They also improved in the blue college town counties of Douglas (+1.2%) and Riley (+3.3%).In the western counties where Latinos constitute a majority, Trump saw significant growth. Ford county improved 3 percent, Finney 6 percent, Seward 5 percent, and Grant 4 percent.In short, the 2024 election was a uniform swing for Trump that showcased a new Republican coalition, one that approaches the diversity typically seen within the Democratic party.However, it would be a mistake to overreact and claim that a lasting realignment has taken place.It was a close election. The margin of victory in Wisconsin was 0.9%, 1.4% in Michigan, and 2.1% in Pennsylvania.Keeping the coalition together will be difficult. Latinos are the new swing voters. And not long ago, Barack Obama drew a large share of the white working class.Circumstances change quickly and future developments could very well benefit Democrats.Finally, Trump’s opponents repeatedly claimed he was a danger to democracy.Perhaps.But Trump is also a vivid expression of it.He forged and expanded a unique coalition, harnessing the strength of the very democratic institutions that his critics argue he wishes to destroy.It was no fluke.The views and opinions expressed in this opinion article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions. If you would like to submit an opinion please submit it newstips@salinapost.com

Insight: The surprising growth of the MAGA coalition

By HAROLD COURTOIS Hospital Administrator, Memorial Health System

For over 30 years, the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program has enabled millions of Americans, including our patients in Abilene, to access essential healthcare. This program allows hospitals and clinics to purchase medications at a discount, ensuring that vulnerable populations—including seniors on fixed incomes and low-income families—can access vital services like chemotherapy, diabetes care, and behavioral health.

Unfortunately, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly undermining the 340B Program to boost profits, prioritizing investors over patients. In 2022 alone, Kansas 340B hospitals faced a combined net revenue loss of $18.2 million, while the top eight drug companies earned $99.4 billion.

Without 340B, Kansans would face higher costs, reduced access to care, and poorer health outcomes, especially in rural areas. The program’s savings support community health, keeping hospitals open and services available.

While recent legislative efforts have helped, there’s still work to do. I urge Kansans to contact their elected officials and advocate for preserving 340B. Together, we can protect this vital program and ensure accessible healthcare for all Kansans.

Harold Courtois is the Hospital Administrator of Memorial Health System (MHS) in Abilene, KS. MHS is an affiliate of Salina Regional Health Center along with the hospitals in Lindsborg and Concordia. Salina Regional Health Center is not a 340B hospital, but advocates for this essential program for its affiliated critical access hospitals as well as other rural hospitals in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By HAROLD COURTOIS Hospital Administrator, Memorial Health SystemFor over 30 years, the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program has enabled millions of Americans, including our patients in Abilene, to access essential healthcare. This program allows hospitals and clinics to purchase medications at a discount, ensuring that vulnerable populations—including seniors on fixed incomes and low-income families—can access vital services like chemotherapy, diabetes care, and behavioral health.Unfortunately, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly undermining the 340B Program to boost profits, prioritizing investors over patients. In 2022 alone, Kansas 340B hospitals faced a combined net revenue loss of $18.2 million, while the top eight drug companies earned $99.4 billion.Without 340B, Kansans would face higher costs, reduced access to care, and poorer health outcomes, especially in rural areas. The program’s savings support community health, keeping hospitals open and services available.While recent legislative efforts have helped, there’s still work to do. I urge Kansans to contact their elected officials and advocate for preserving 340B. Together, we can protect this vital program and ensure accessible healthcare for all Kansans.Harold Courtois is the Hospital Administrator of Memorial Health System (MHS) in Abilene, KS. MHS is an affiliate of Salina Regional Health Center along with the hospitals in Lindsborg and Concordia. Salina Regional Health Center is not a 340B hospital, but advocates for this essential program for its affiliated critical access hospitals as well as other rural hospitals in Kansas.

OPINION: 340B Program protects access to much-needed health care

By BRIANNE HEIDBREDER&nbsp; PhD Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University

The 2024 election results in Kansas demonstrate that the state’s conservative foundation remains firmly intact, with Republicans holding onto important state and federal offices. However, a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-finalv3-corrections-10.28.24-execsum-final-bullet-and-10.31.24-appendix-c-crosstabs-table-17-title.pdf">survey</a>, Kansas Speaks, conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, shows a more nuanced and complex reality.

Despite recent buzz that the presidential race could be tighter, Republicans held strong up and down the ballot. At the state level, they held onto their supermajority in the Kansas Legislature, giving them considerable influence over key issues like taxes, education, and healthcare. This puts them on a collision course with Democratic Governor Laura Kelly, who may find it harder to push back against their agenda, as Republicans will likely have enough votes to override any vetoes she might try to use to block their bills.

Interestingly, the Docking Institute’s survey shows that more Kansans approve of Governor Kelly’s job performance than disapprove, creating an interesting dynamic as she navigates working with a legislature that holds such a strong Republican majority.

On the national front, Kansas’s congressional delegation remains predominantly Republican, with the notable exception of Democratic Representative Sharice Davids in the 3rd District. And since no U.S. Senate seats were up for election this year, the state’s U.S. Senate seats will stay in Republican hands.

Economic concerns clearly weighed heavily on voters, according to the survey. Over half of respondents (51.2%) said inflation had greatly affected their families, and nearly 43% expressed concern about economic threats to their well-being.

President Biden’s low approval ratings in the state, coupled with economic frustrations, likely helped Donald Trump, who won Kansas by a wide margin, continuing a long tradition of Republican victories in presidential races here. In fact, Trump’s margin of victory in 2024 closely mirrors his 2020 performance, indicating his electoral fortunes were not hurt despite being embroiled in legal and political scandals over the last four years.

However, when it comes to some social issues, Kansans appear to be moving in a different direction. In the Docking Institute’s survey, 65.4% of respondents agreed that women, not politicians, should decide whether to have an abortion, and over half (54.9%) said the government should not impose any restrictions on abortion access.

This is in line with the&nbsp;decisive&nbsp;vote in August 2022, when Kansans rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would have removed abortion protections. These results suggest that Kansans are willing to break with conservative positions on certain issues, particularly when it comes to personal freedoms.

With a combination of traditional conservative values and an emerging independent streak on key issues, Kansas seems to be heading toward a more dynamic political landscape. While the state’s conservative foundation remains strong, the growing diversity of opinions suggests that Kansas’s political future may be more fluid and open to new perspectives than it has been in the past.

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678375940173.jpeg" alt="Brianne Heidbreder" />
 <figcaption>Brianne Heidbreder</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIANNE HEIDBREDER&nbsp; PhD Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State UniversityThe 2024 election results in Kansas demonstrate that the state’s conservative foundation remains firmly intact, with Republicans holding onto important state and federal offices. However, a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-finalv3-corrections-10.28.24-execsum-final-bullet-and-10.31.24-appendix-c-crosstabs-table-17-title.pdf">survey</a>, Kansas Speaks, conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, shows a more nuanced and complex reality.Despite recent buzz that the presidential race could be tighter, Republicans held strong up and down the ballot. At the state level, they held onto their supermajority in the Kansas Legislature, giving them considerable influence over key issues like taxes, education, and healthcare. This puts them on a collision course with Democratic Governor Laura Kelly, who may find it harder to push back against their agenda, as Republicans will likely have enough votes to override any vetoes she might try to use to block their bills.Interestingly, the Docking Institute’s survey shows that more Kansans approve of Governor Kelly’s job performance than disapprove, creating an interesting dynamic as she navigates working with a legislature that holds such a strong Republican majority.On the national front, Kansas’s congressional delegation remains predominantly Republican, with the notable exception of Democratic Representative Sharice Davids in the 3rd District. And since no U.S. Senate seats were up for election this year, the state’s U.S. Senate seats will stay in Republican hands.Economic concerns clearly weighed heavily on voters, according to the survey. Over half of respondents (51.2%) said inflation had greatly affected their families, and nearly 43% expressed concern about economic threats to their well-being.President Biden’s low approval ratings in the state, coupled with economic frustrations, likely helped Donald Trump, who won Kansas by a wide margin, continuing a long tradition of Republican victories in presidential races here. In fact, Trump’s margin of victory in 2024 closely mirrors his 2020 performance, indicating his electoral fortunes were not hurt despite being embroiled in legal and political scandals over the last four years.However, when it comes to some social issues, Kansans appear to be moving in a different direction. In the Docking Institute’s survey, 65.4% of respondents agreed that women, not politicians, should decide whether to have an abortion, and over half (54.9%) said the government should not impose any restrictions on abortion access.This is in line with the&nbsp;decisive&nbsp;vote in August 2022, when Kansans rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would have removed abortion protections. These results suggest that Kansans are willing to break with conservative positions on certain issues, particularly when it comes to personal freedoms.With a combination of traditional conservative values and an emerging independent streak on key issues, Kansas seems to be heading toward a more dynamic political landscape. While the state’s conservative foundation remains strong, the growing diversity of opinions suggests that Kansas’s political future may be more fluid and open to new perspectives than it has been in the past.The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

Insight: Kansas 2024 — A complex, red state

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

I’ve spent a lot of time in the cabs of tractors this month as we continue our marathon of fall harvest.

Spending so much time operating the grain cart during fall harvest has allowed me ample time to get caught up on podcasts, opportunities to start and end new audiobooks, and hear the latest songs on the radio over and over and over again.

While I’ve had this extra tractor time, I’ve also been away from other important tasks. The laundry needs attention. I’ve been slow to respond to my emails. October birthdays will be celebrated later in November. And I’ve officially told my kids they need to conserve the grocery hauls I bring home on the weekends because I can’t make special grocery trips during the week. If we run out of milk, drink water.

If I’m not in a tractor, I’ve been driving through the countryside in a truck pulling equipment to the next field waiting to be harvested. I’ve spent a lot of time on the backroads navigating to the next field.

The other afternoon my daughter was in the truck with me while I was pulling the fuel trailer to a field. She was chatting away about her day, testing me on her latest jokes and riddles she’d been working on, and keeping me up to date on the latest book she’d been reading.

As we approached a tree lined portion of the dirt road, she stopped talking and just looked out the windows until we drove through the trees full of changing leaves.

“You know, Mom,” she said. “I think this is the most beautiful time of the year.”

I couldn't argue with her. The trees are at just the right point of the season where the green summer leaves have turned to the bright yellows, reds and oranges that are synonymous with autumn. They glisten in the afternoon sunlight while moving with the wind, still clinging to the tree branches suggesting there’s plenty of life remaining before winter arrives.

Everywhere I look right now, there’s a warm and fiery palette presenting itself to viewers.

There are people who pay a lot of money to go see the changing of colors in other states. Individual vacations, bus tours and train rides are scheduled around this particular season. Many people either head to the mountains to view the aspens turning or travel back East to see the maple, birch and cherry trees showcasing their peak fall foliage.

But me? I’m perfectly happy enjoying my views from a tractor cab or while driving down the dirt roads as we continue to harvest our fall crops. The background colors of those most beautiful leaves compliment the natural, warm hues of the soybeans and sorghum fields still awaiting harvest.

I know it won’t last for long, so I’m making sure to appreciate all of these peak views now before the leaves dry up and release themselves from their trees to usher in winter.

It truly is the most beautiful time of the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancherI’ve spent a lot of time in the cabs of tractors this month as we continue our marathon of fall harvest.Spending so much time operating the grain cart during fall harvest has allowed me ample time to get caught up on podcasts, opportunities to start and end new audiobooks, and hear the latest songs on the radio over and over and over again.While I’ve had this extra tractor time, I’ve also been away from other important tasks. The laundry needs attention. I’ve been slow to respond to my emails. October birthdays will be celebrated later in November. And I’ve officially told my kids they need to conserve the grocery hauls I bring home on the weekends because I can’t make special grocery trips during the week. If we run out of milk, drink water.If I’m not in a tractor, I’ve been driving through the countryside in a truck pulling equipment to the next field waiting to be harvested. I’ve spent a lot of time on the backroads navigating to the next field.The other afternoon my daughter was in the truck with me while I was pulling the fuel trailer to a field. She was chatting away about her day, testing me on her latest jokes and riddles she’d been working on, and keeping me up to date on the latest book she’d been reading.As we approached a tree lined portion of the dirt road, she stopped talking and just looked out the windows until we drove through the trees full of changing leaves.“You know, Mom,” she said. “I think this is the most beautiful time of the year.”I couldn't argue with her. The trees are at just the right point of the season where the green summer leaves have turned to the bright yellows, reds and oranges that are synonymous with autumn. They glisten in the afternoon sunlight while moving with the wind, still clinging to the tree branches suggesting there’s plenty of life remaining before winter arrives.Everywhere I look right now, there’s a warm and fiery palette presenting itself to viewers.There are people who pay a lot of money to go see the changing of colors in other states. Individual vacations, bus tours and train rides are scheduled around this particular season. Many people either head to the mountains to view the aspens turning or travel back East to see the maple, birch and cherry trees showcasing their peak fall foliage.But me? I’m perfectly happy enjoying my views from a tractor cab or while driving down the dirt roads as we continue to harvest our fall crops. The background colors of those most beautiful leaves compliment the natural, warm hues of the soybeans and sorghum fields still awaiting harvest.I know it won’t last for long, so I’m making sure to appreciate all of these peak views now before the leaves dry up and release themselves from their trees to usher in winter.It truly is the most beautiful time of the year."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.Copyright © 2024 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Colors of harvest

By DAVID NORLIN Salina Resident

If there is one place where Americans and Kansans find common ground, it is accountability.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When candidate-speak is unaccountable, when fact-checkers can’t keep up, in the face of cascading catastrophic issues, when one side says this and the other that, well--hell, yes!&nbsp;&nbsp;We want accountability.&nbsp;&nbsp;And truth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So, why is it that Kansas’ monopoly party slavishly reinforces faulty facts/perceptions, or worse yet simply refuses to show up at election time?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Absence from Kansas debates looks at first like a troubling infection, but examined more closely, it’s a pandemic.

To say they are following Trump is almost cliché.&nbsp;&nbsp;We need not document his many no-shows.&nbsp;&nbsp;But whether it’s copycatism or just arrogance, this campaign tactic has trickled, or cascaded, down to Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Salina, JR Claeys, our Saline/Dickinson County 24th District Senator who also runs/manages/consults Trump’s campaign and many others, has followed suit. Who is the ONLY candidate who refused to appear or even send a statement, for the League of Women Voters forum?&nbsp;&nbsp;Claeys.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

But his refusal’s arguable effect on Salina history is even more disturbing.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more than a half century, the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce and the League of Women Voters have co-hosted pre-election candidate forums.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year, the forum was planned as usual.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Suddenly, the Chamber withdrew.&nbsp;&nbsp;No longer did it feel responsible to offer the public an examination of candidates. The Chamber had “received …. concerns regarding [League] partisanship.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Their “community partners” made it clear “that there is a perception in the community that the League is a partisan organization.”&nbsp;&nbsp;So, they decided to “protect [their] reputation as non-partisan.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Who, it might be asked, is partisan here? An organization that wants the public to be informed, or one that doesn’t?&nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s nearly impossible to avoid the echo Chamber’s language regarding the League of Women Voters as a ‘partisan organization.’&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2016, only slightly more ridiculously, now-Kansas-Attorney-General Kris Kobach, infamously conferred the label “communist League of Women Voters.”

After 50 years, why the Chamber’s change of mind—and heart?

The same question might apply in another Senator’s campaign, that of Larry Alley in Senate Disrict 32 Cowley County.When pressed in an earlier debate about his votes on Medicaid expansion, women’s reproductive health, and tax issues—votes that some argued were against the best interests of his constituents—Alley said he would answer questions in a second debate but refused to appear on stage with his opponent, Lawrence Moreno.

<a href="https://www.ctnewsonline.com/news/article_445841e8-8c57-11ef-8d11-67fae60217fd.html">Faced with that reality, the local Optimist Club and Chamber of Commerce abruptly cancelled, citing ‘lack of volunteers.”</a>

The U.S. House race for District one is also instructive.&nbsp;&nbsp;Incumbent Tracey Mann of Salina was approached on numerous occasions by broadcast outlets, Chambers of Commerce, and women’s groups, with no response except ‘schedule conflicts.’&nbsp;&nbsp;

The requests:&nbsp;&nbsp;August 17, Douglas County Women For Kansas; September 16, Hutchinson Women for Kansas; October 8 or 14, Hays Chamber and FHSU; Oct 21 or 22, WIBW TV; October 11, 23, or 24, KSAL Salina.&nbsp;&nbsp;In all cases, either no response or ‘schedule conflict.’&nbsp;&nbsp;

Most interestingly, says Democratic candidate Paul Buskirk, “The Douglas County W4K, after no response, saw that Mann was appearing just a few miles away in a nearby town the day before their requested debate.&nbsp;&nbsp;They went.&nbsp;&nbsp;Asking him directly why he’d not responded and renewing their request, Mann told them that he visited each county only once in a given year.”

The brick wall of no-shows is not limited to more rural areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Kansas’ largest city, Mary Knecht, League of Women Voters Wichita-Metro member, relates their experience.&nbsp; 

“Candidates who refused the invitation to participate in a forum for the November 2024 election were Ron Estes, Ty Masterson, and Dan Hawkins.” In other words, both another U.S. House member (Estes) and the leaders of both Kansas Senate and House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Why do these public servants feel no responsibility to their public?

In Claeys’ case, he has steered dollars and grants to the downtown TIF district, K-State Salina Aviation program, the Airport Authority, the new federal-grant-supported housing project, in which the Senator is rumored to have a financial interest, and others.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Money talks. Where Claeys goes, bucks bellow.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As a VP of Axiom strategies, he manages or ‘consults with’ his and numerous other election races--<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5ee12ffcebfb13423b277290">including Donald Trump and Kris Kobach</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;All races famous for their blizzards of last-minute postcards against opponents, most filled with unsubstantiated accusations.

Axiom’s profits also come from the ballot initiatives like the $2 million KC Chiefs’ proposed new stadium. Dollars paid stayed--with Axiom.

Besides his legislative salary, <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/19/kansas-lawmakers-on-track-for-hefty-salary-increases-in-2025/">due to double next year</a>, Kris Kobach hired his former campaign manager and spokesperson as <a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/politics/elections/2023/01/12/kansas-lawmaker-to-advise-kris-kobach-remain-in-state-legislature/69799613007/">‘Senior Advisor,’</a> at over $75,000 a year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What really costs us, however, are not his salaries, but his influence.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“One hundred percent of his contributions came from PACs, corporations or other types of businesses.” His fund-raisers are held in well-heeled<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/06/04/where-did-kansas-state-senators-campaign-funds-come-from-the-answers-might-surprise-you/"> Kansas City and Wichita at hundreds to thousands a plate</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Under these circumstances, why talk to constituents at their doors, to the public at a League of Women Voters debate, or even/especially to the press?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Salina press uniformly reports non-response.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nathan King, Salina Post says, “I called 4 different phone numbers repeatedly asking for response.&nbsp;&nbsp;Got nothing.” 

To confirm, I personally emailed Claeys and left voicemail asking for response.&nbsp;&nbsp;I, too, got nothing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So, did Claeys’ Trump our Chamber of Commerce? Or vice versa?

Either way, the public is robbed of its right to truth.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unaccountably.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure>By DAVID NORLIN Salina ResidentIf there is one place where Americans and Kansans find common ground, it is accountability.&nbsp;&nbsp;Everyone gets that.&nbsp;&nbsp;When candidate-speak is unaccountable, when fact-checkers can’t keep up, in the face of cascading catastrophic issues, when one side says this and the other that, well--hell, yes!&nbsp;&nbsp;We want accountability.&nbsp;&nbsp;And truth.&nbsp;&nbsp;So, why is it that Kansas’ monopoly party slavishly reinforces faulty facts/perceptions, or worse yet simply refuses to show up at election time?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Absence from Kansas debates looks at first like a troubling infection, but examined more closely, it’s a pandemic.To say they are following Trump is almost cliché.&nbsp;&nbsp;We need not document his many no-shows.&nbsp;&nbsp;But whether it’s copycatism or just arrogance, this campaign tactic has trickled, or cascaded, down to Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Salina, JR Claeys, our Saline/Dickinson County 24th District Senator who also runs/manages/consults Trump’s campaign and many others, has followed suit. Who is the ONLY candidate who refused to appear or even send a statement, for the League of Women Voters forum?&nbsp;&nbsp;Claeys.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But his refusal’s arguable effect on Salina history is even more disturbing.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more than a half century, the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce and the League of Women Voters have co-hosted pre-election candidate forums.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year, the forum was planned as usual.&nbsp;&nbsp;Till it wasn’t.&nbsp;&nbsp;Suddenly, the Chamber withdrew.&nbsp;&nbsp;No longer did it feel responsible to offer the public an examination of candidates. The Chamber had “received …. concerns regarding [League] partisanship.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Their “community partners” made it clear “that there is a perception in the community that the League is a partisan organization.”&nbsp;&nbsp;So, they decided to “protect [their] reputation as non-partisan.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Who, it might be asked, is partisan here? An organization that wants the public to be informed, or one that doesn’t?&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s nearly impossible to avoid the echo Chamber’s language regarding the League of Women Voters as a ‘partisan organization.’&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2016, only slightly more ridiculously, now-Kansas-Attorney-General Kris Kobach, infamously conferred the label “communist League of Women Voters.”After 50 years, why the Chamber’s change of mind—and heart?The same question might apply in another Senator’s campaign, that of Larry Alley in Senate Disrict 32 Cowley County.When pressed in an earlier debate about his votes on Medicaid expansion, women’s reproductive health, and tax issues—votes that some argued were against the best interests of his constituents—Alley said he would answer questions in a second debate but refused to appear on stage with his opponent, Lawrence Moreno.<a href="https://www.ctnewsonline.com/news/article_445841e8-8c57-11ef-8d11-67fae60217fd.html">Faced with that reality, the local Optimist Club and Chamber of Commerce abruptly cancelled, citing ‘lack of volunteers.”</a>The U.S. House race for District one is also instructive.&nbsp;&nbsp;Incumbent Tracey Mann of Salina was approached on numerous occasions by broadcast outlets, Chambers of Commerce, and women’s groups, with no response except ‘schedule conflicts.’&nbsp;&nbsp;The requests:&nbsp;&nbsp;August 17, Douglas County Women For Kansas; September 16, Hutchinson Women for Kansas; October 8 or 14, Hays Chamber and FHSU; Oct 21 or 22, WIBW TV; October 11, 23, or 24, KSAL Salina.&nbsp;&nbsp;In all cases, either no response or ‘schedule conflict.’&nbsp;&nbsp;Most interestingly, says Democratic candidate Paul Buskirk, “The Douglas County W4K, after no response, saw that Mann was appearing just a few miles away in a nearby town the day before their requested debate.&nbsp;&nbsp;They went.&nbsp;&nbsp;Asking him directly why he’d not responded and renewing their request, Mann told them that he visited each county only once in a given year.”The brick wall of no-shows is not limited to more rural areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Kansas’ largest city, Mary Knecht, League of Women Voters Wichita-Metro member, relates their experience.&nbsp; “Candidates who refused the invitation to participate in a forum for the November 2024 election were Ron Estes, Ty Masterson, and Dan Hawkins.” In other words, both another U.S. House member (Estes) and the leaders of both Kansas Senate and House.&nbsp;&nbsp;Why do these public servants feel no responsibility to their public?In Claeys’ case, he has steered dollars and grants to the downtown TIF district, K-State Salina Aviation program, the Airport Authority, the new federal-grant-supported housing project, in which the Senator is rumored to have a financial interest, and others.&nbsp;&nbsp;Money talks. Where Claeys goes, bucks bellow.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a VP of Axiom strategies, he manages or ‘consults with’ his and numerous other election races--<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5ee12ffcebfb13423b277290">including Donald Trump and Kris Kobach</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;All races famous for their blizzards of last-minute postcards against opponents, most filled with unsubstantiated accusations.Axiom’s profits also come from the ballot initiatives like the $2 million KC Chiefs’ proposed new stadium. Dollars paid stayed--with Axiom.And then there are JR’s salaries.Besides his legislative salary, <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/19/kansas-lawmakers-on-track-for-hefty-salary-increases-in-2025/">due to double next year</a>, Kris Kobach hired his former campaign manager and spokesperson as <a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/politics/elections/2023/01/12/kansas-lawmaker-to-advise-kris-kobach-remain-in-state-legislature/69799613007/">‘Senior Advisor,’</a> at over $75,000 a year.&nbsp;&nbsp;What really costs us, however, are not his salaries, but his influence.&nbsp;&nbsp;Who funds him?&nbsp;&nbsp;“One hundred percent of his contributions came from PACs, corporations or other types of businesses.” His fund-raisers are held in well-heeled<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/06/04/where-did-kansas-state-senators-campaign-funds-come-from-the-answers-might-surprise-you/"> Kansas City and Wichita at hundreds to thousands a plate</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Under these circumstances, why talk to constituents at their doors, to the public at a League of Women Voters debate, or even/especially to the press?&nbsp;&nbsp;Salina press uniformly reports non-response.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nathan King, Salina Post says, “I called 4 different phone numbers repeatedly asking for response.&nbsp;&nbsp;Got nothing.” To confirm, I personally emailed Claeys and left voicemail asking for response.&nbsp;&nbsp;I, too, got nothing.&nbsp;&nbsp;So, did Claeys’ Trump our Chamber of Commerce? Or vice versa?Either way, the public is robbed of its right to truth.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unaccountably.&nbsp;&nbsp;The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

OPINION: No-shows rob the people

By RUSSELL FOX Insight Kansas

Most voters make their decisions for various unreflective reasons; engaging in a prolonged internal struggle over whether or not to support any particular candidate, especially a candidate nominated by a party which the voter identifies with, just isn’t typical behavior.

Donald Trump, though, has never been a typical candidate; he’s always been a contentious one. There is less talk today of “Never Trumpers,” as many of those Republicans who opposed Trump’s rise to dominance within the GOP have left the party. But not all have—even in Kansas, a state that gave Trump 56% of the popular vote in 2016 and 2020, and will likely do so again.

Given that Kansas Republicans have historically divided into moderate and conservative factions, perhaps the fact that there remains a small but persistent number of Republicans who still reject Trump’s control over the GOP isn’t surprising. Stephanie Sharp, a Republican who served three terms in the Kansas House, is one of the prime movers behind&nbsp;<a href="https://www.women4us.org/">Women 4 U.S.</a>, a national organization of self-identifying conservative women working against Trump’s return to the White House. Steven Howe, current Republican member of the Kansas House, condemned Trump’s “<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/33c904d2-daa4-4be1-9579-7144c08488a5">deceit and lies</a>” and plead with his own party to turn away from their support for the former president. And then there is U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, the only one of the Republicans which Kansans have elected to Congress who has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/readers-opinion/guest-commentary/article292202050.html">declined to endorse Trump</a>&nbsp;for president. While he’s never directly condemned Trump either, this is a man who, if you’ve&nbsp;<a href="https://inmedias.blogspot.com/2019/03/a-tale-of-two-congressmen-with-10-point.html">paid attention to his speeches over the years</a>, clearly has little respect for the leader of his own party.

I also have to include here a deeply conservative friend of mine, a life-long Republican voter who finds Trump’s dismissive attitude towards both the law and the truth utterly disqualifying, despite mostly agreeing with Trump on matters of policy.

He, like those mentioned above, knows that his opposition won’t significantly affect voting results in Kansas; it’s a given that Kansas’s electoral college votes will go to Donald Trump.

But what will that result have on the longstanding divide within Kansas’s dominant political party? All political parties deal with internal divisions over policy priorities, but a rejection of the person who leads the party itself? The Bernie Sanders faction of the Democratic party, despite its grievances, made its peace with and supported both Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, and is set to do the same for Kamala Harris, whereas the absence of any Trump-critical Republicans from the current GOP campaign—from Mitt Romney to Lynn Cheney to Mike Pence--suggests a division quite unlike the divides Kansas Republican faced over Governor Brownback, for example.

I think of another friend, a smart and passionate GOP volunteer, who is entirely on board with the MAGA line: that Trump won the election in 2020, and that Trump’s actions to challenge being denied his supposed win were justified, despite the violence involved. Assuming neither of my friends change their minds, how can their party accommodate such a stark division?

Perhaps by just ignoring it? (It’s notable that Rep. Howe has faced no intra-party challenge in his re-election race). Or if Trump loses, maybe find common ground by treating the past decade as just a strange, rough patch in party history, something that historians will have to figure out?

Neither of those options will be available if Trump wins, or just refuses once again to accept his loss. So long a Trump’s presence endures, I would anticipate that a small but persistent fracture will remain in our state Republican politics. Who knows how long it will take for it to heal then?

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita, KS

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 </figure>By RUSSELL FOX Insight KansasMost voters make their decisions for various unreflective reasons; engaging in a prolonged internal struggle over whether or not to support any particular candidate, especially a candidate nominated by a party which the voter identifies with, just isn’t typical behavior.Donald Trump, though, has never been a typical candidate; he’s always been a contentious one. There is less talk today of “Never Trumpers,” as many of those Republicans who opposed Trump’s rise to dominance within the GOP have left the party. But not all have—even in Kansas, a state that gave Trump 56% of the popular vote in 2016 and 2020, and will likely do so again.Given that Kansas Republicans have historically divided into moderate and conservative factions, perhaps the fact that there remains a small but persistent number of Republicans who still reject Trump’s control over the GOP isn’t surprising. Stephanie Sharp, a Republican who served three terms in the Kansas House, is one of the prime movers behind&nbsp;<a href="https://www.women4us.org/">Women 4 U.S.</a>, a national organization of self-identifying conservative women working against Trump’s return to the White House. Steven Howe, current Republican member of the Kansas House, condemned Trump’s “<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/33c904d2-daa4-4be1-9579-7144c08488a5">deceit and lies</a>” and plead with his own party to turn away from their support for the former president. And then there is U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, the only one of the Republicans which Kansans have elected to Congress who has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/readers-opinion/guest-commentary/article292202050.html">declined to endorse Trump</a>&nbsp;for president. While he’s never directly condemned Trump either, this is a man who, if you’ve&nbsp;<a href="https://inmedias.blogspot.com/2019/03/a-tale-of-two-congressmen-with-10-point.html">paid attention to his speeches over the years</a>, clearly has little respect for the leader of his own party.I also have to include here a deeply conservative friend of mine, a life-long Republican voter who finds Trump’s dismissive attitude towards both the law and the truth utterly disqualifying, despite mostly agreeing with Trump on matters of policy.He, like those mentioned above, knows that his opposition won’t significantly affect voting results in Kansas; it’s a given that Kansas’s electoral college votes will go to Donald Trump.But what will that result have on the longstanding divide within Kansas’s dominant political party? All political parties deal with internal divisions over policy priorities, but a rejection of the person who leads the party itself? The Bernie Sanders faction of the Democratic party, despite its grievances, made its peace with and supported both Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, and is set to do the same for Kamala Harris, whereas the absence of any Trump-critical Republicans from the current GOP campaign—from Mitt Romney to Lynn Cheney to Mike Pence--suggests a division quite unlike the divides Kansas Republican faced over Governor Brownback, for example.I think of another friend, a smart and passionate GOP volunteer, who is entirely on board with the MAGA line: that Trump won the election in 2020, and that Trump’s actions to challenge being denied his supposed win were justified, despite the violence involved. Assuming neither of my friends change their minds, how can their party accommodate such a stark division?Perhaps by just ignoring it? (It’s notable that Rep. Howe has faced no intra-party challenge in his re-election race). Or if Trump loses, maybe find common ground by treating the past decade as just a strange, rough patch in party history, something that historians will have to figure out?Neither of those options will be available if Trump wins, or just refuses once again to accept his loss. So long a Trump’s presence endures, I would anticipate that a small but persistent fracture will remain in our state Republican politics. Who knows how long it will take for it to heal then?Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita, KS

INSIGHT KANSAS:  Kansas Republicans and the problem of Donald Trump

By STEVEN HOWE State Representative (R-71st District)

The United States of America is a land full of second chances. It is a land of refuge and opportunity, a land of redemption. We have a constitution that helps secure the rights of the people, and among those precious rights is freedom of speech - which means even criticizing elected officials like myself or former President Trump. The checks and balances that our founders framed for us are beautifully made for freedom loving people. 

Earlier this year I wrote an Op-Ed very critical of former President Trump and the events that led up to January 6, 2021. In my column I took the former President to task for his repeated and false claims that the 2020 election was “stolen” and the events leading up to January 6. Also in the op-ed, in light of this year’s Kansas presidential preference primary I stated, “.....I will not vote for him a third time in 2024.” 

When the op-ed was published in January there were approximately 10 Republicans up for the nomination. I was hopeful that a potentially younger conservative candidate would help the Republican Party move forward. 

By the time the Kansas presidential preference primary rolled around on March 19th, everyone had dropped out or suspended their campaigns, and President Trump became the presumptive Republican nominee on March 12.

For the past seven months I have observed, and have contemplated deeply about the choices before us. To say a lot has changed in that time is an understatement. Yesterday I got in line to advance vote, and I cast my vote for Donald J. Trump for President. Although I have my own personal reservations, I believe he has the superior executive leadership experience to lead our country for the next four years.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709073668247.jpeg" alt="Steven Howe" />
 <figcaption>Steven Howe</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVEN HOWE State Representative (R-71st District) The United States of America is a land full of second chances. It is a land of refuge and opportunity, a land of redemption. We have a constitution that helps secure the rights of the people, and among those precious rights is freedom of speech - which means even criticizing elected officials like myself or former President Trump. The checks and balances that our founders framed for us are beautifully made for freedom loving people. Earlier this year I wrote an Op-Ed very critical of former President Trump and the events that led up to January 6, 2021. In my column I took the former President to task for his repeated and false claims that the 2020 election was “stolen” and the events leading up to January 6. Also in the op-ed, in light of this year’s Kansas presidential preference primary I stated, “.....I will not vote for him a third time in 2024.” When the op-ed was published in January there were approximately 10 Republicans up for the nomination. I was hopeful that a potentially younger conservative candidate would help the Republican Party move forward. By the time the Kansas presidential preference primary rolled around on March 19th, everyone had dropped out or suspended their campaigns, and President Trump became the presumptive Republican nominee on March 12.For the past seven months I have observed, and have contemplated deeply about the choices before us. To say a lot has changed in that time is an understatement. Yesterday I got in line to advance vote, and I cast my vote for Donald J. Trump for President. Although I have my own personal reservations, I believe he has the superior executive leadership experience to lead our country for the next four years.I do not consider my vote to be a blank check for anyone. I will continue to engage and be a civil voice within the Republican Party, and work to bring people together to get things done.Whether it is eliminating the state income tax on social security benefits or eliminating the state sales tax on food, there is common ground that has been achieved because Republicans and Democrats were willing to work together. Let’s hope Kansas can be a model for what is possible at the national level - Ad Astra Per Aspera- To the Stars Through Difficulties.Steven K. Howe currently serves as the State Representative for District 71 in Salina and Saline County, and is the Republican nominee for State Representative for Kansas’ District 71.The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

Opinion